Genomic Selection Accelerates Breeding of High-Protein Wheat in Semi-Arid Regions

Abstract

A genomic selection (GS) approach was applied to a diverse panel of wheat lines to identify genotypes with high protein content suitable for semi-arid climates. Using genome-wide SNP markers and phenotype data from multi-location trials, prediction models were trained to improve selection accuracy for grain protein percentage.
The GS model outperformed traditional selection, with a prediction accuracy of 0.71 for protein content and reduced breeding cycle time by 40%. Candidate lines were validated under limited irrigation conditions, showing up to 14% higher protein content than control cultivars. GS represents a transformative approach in wheat breeding under abiotic stress.